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HIAS Statement on Federal Judge Order on Asylum

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Nov 20, 2018

SILVER SPRING, Md.– A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to resume considering the claims of all asylum seekers who cross into the United States. HIAS had objected to the administration’s attempt to deny asylum to those who enter the country between ports of entry.

In his ruling Monday, U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar said the policy, established by executive order on November 9, likely violates U.S. immigration law and causes harm to asylum seekers.

"Whatever the scope of the President's authority, he may not rewrite the immigration laws to impose a condition that Congress has expressly forbidden," Tigar wrote.

The judge’s order remains in effect until Dec. 19, at which point the court will consider arguments for a permanent injunction.

HIAS Senior Director for Policy and Advocacy Naomi Steinberg, in response to the ruling said, “We are pleased that asylum seekers will not be blocked from asylum and that the court has affirmed the right to seek asylum under our laws. We know the fight is not over and we will continue to stand for asylum seekers who want nothing more than safety in our country.”

Over the past few weeks more than 5,000 HIAS supporters signed a petition against the executive order.